In the halls of Tonawanda High School and Middle School, School Resource Officer David Kraft, has been making an impact every day on the students.
After 19 years working patrol with the City of Tonawanda Police Department, Officer Kraft joined the district as an SRO this school year.
His colleague, SRO Jason Balling, says his personality is what helps him connect with the students.
“He’s adapted well to the high school setting,” said Balling. “He has a great sense of humor, which, I think the kids like that.”
Officer Balling is the one who convinced Officer Kraft to become an SRO. He credits Officer Kraft’s years working in the Tonawanda community as to why he’s able to connect with the students. Officer Kraft takes the time to talk with the students and often knows their families and what the students may be dealing with outside of school.
“He has a respect from the students that you don’t see elsewhere,” said Officer Balling.
“I enjoy talking to the kids,” said Officer Kraft. “When you come back after a week and hear how much they missed you, that’s a good thing.”
Recently, Officer Kraft went through the two week DARE officer training course where his efforts received high honors. During graduation, Officer Kraft was presented with the John Jantzen Award for Excellence, for his outstanding efforts and performance during the training. The award recognizes the officer who excels with their commitment, dedication and vision of the DARE Program.
“The Tonawanda City School District is proud of our partnership and relationship with the Tonawanda Police Department,” said Dr. Timothy Oldenburg, Superintendent of Schools for the Tonawanda City School District. “Together we have established an exemplary SRO program that focuses on community policing, relationships, education, and developing and maintaining safe environments. Officer Kraft, in his first year as an SRO, has made a positive and meaningful impact on our students, staff and school community. This DARE excellence award is well-deserved and signifies his excellent service to our school district and community."
Officer Balling said Officer Kraft is probably the first Tonawanda instructor to receive the award in the last 30 years.
Officer Kraft said he was surprised to receive the honor.
“It was something I worked hard for, but didn’t even know about,” said Officer Kraft.
Since then, he has taught six DARE classes at Tonawanda Elementary School. According to Officer Balling, this also helps Officer Kraft get to know the students over there, before they move up to the middle school.
Officer Kraft says he’s really enjoying his new role in the DARE program. And even with his expanded responsibilities, he’s still always there for his students in the middle and high school.
“I’m here to protect them and if they need to talk, I’m here for them,” said Officer Kraft.